China Deploys ‘Growing Army’ of Pro-Beijing NGOs to UN to Target Critics, Report Says

 An investigative report by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) reveals that China is increasing its influence at the United Nations (UN) by sending groups that act as non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to suppress criticism of its human rights practices.

• The report highlights China’s campaign to control narratives around its human rights record, particularly since Xi Jinping’s re-election in 2017.

• The number of Chinese NGOs with consultative status at the UN has nearly doubled since 2018, allowing them to participate in meetings and make statements.

• Many of these NGOs are closely linked to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and are described as "government-organized non-governmental organizations" (GONGOs).

• About 59 out of 106 analyzed NGOs are not independent, with some receiving over 50% of their funding from the Chinese government.

• A significant number of these organizations publicly pledge loyalty to the CCP and their representatives often have roles within the government.

• Between 2018 and 2024, the number of instances where Chinese NGOs spoke at Human Rights Council sessions increased dramatically, with no instances of criticism toward China.

• Experts, like Rana Siu Inboden, highlight how these NGOs serve the CCP’s interests, suggesting they are coached to achieve consultative status.

• GONGOs are said to disrupt criticism by praising the CCP, monitoring, and intimidating dissenters.

• U. S. ambassador Michèle Taylor described GONGOs’ actions as dishonest and subversive, contributing to a more favorable narrative for China.

• Activists have reported being surveilled and harassed and expressed fears about retribution against their families in China.

• Some activists chose not to enter UN buildings due to safety concerns and held private meetings nearby.

• The report emphasized that independent organizations have a growing duty to address human rights abuses as autocracy rises globally, warning that unchecked Chinese influence at the UN could undermine its credibility.

The ICIJ report outlines a troubling trend of China using GONGOs to manipulate the narrative surrounding its human rights abuses at the UN, which has serious implications for international human rights monitoring and accountability. 

https://www.theepochtimes.com/china/china-deploys-growing-army-of-pro-beijing-ngos-to-un-to-target-critics-report-says-5849621?utm_source=partner&utm_campaign=TheLibertyDaily